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Dear friend,
As June begins to wind down, I find myself celebrating several important values and holidays in my life that I'm sure many of you celebrate as well.
Most importantly, I voted in Virginia's primary election on Tuesday, June 20th! Voting is one of the most important duties we have as citizens, so I absolutely encourage you to join me at the polls in November to uphold our patriotic responsibility together.
This last week, I celebrated two holidays that are personally important to me, Father's Day and Juneteenth. Those who know me personally know that I am the proud father of my two daughters and this weekend we celebrated the importance of family.
On Saturday, June 17th, I attended a community cookout at Martin Luther King Jr. Community Park in Gum Springs honoring the very important celebration of Juneteenth. That same day, I also attended the dedication of the new Virginia Historical Highway Marker for West Ford, the "Father of Gum Springs."
Coming up, I wanted to let you know about the public meetings on the future of Lake Accotink Park and the proposed sign regulations. As we go into the summer, there are many programs for county residents and I hope you take full advantage of them. Stay cool and enjoy the summer.
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If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office. | |
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Email: Franconia@fairfaxcounty.gov
Phone 703-971-6262
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- Hiring for Constituent Service and Policy Aide
- Juneteenth
- West Ford Highway Marker Dedication
- Task Force on the Future of Lake Accotink
- Community Meeting on Proposed Sign Regulations
- Franconia Nights - starts July 5th!
- THRIVE
- Fairfax County Public Library Summer Reading Challenge
- Fairfax County Park Service Awards - deadline 6-30
- 6 tips to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect This Summer
- FCPS Summer Meal Program
- ECHO Food Donations
- Senior Cool Care Program
- Tax Credit Opportunities
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Hiring for Constituent Service and Policy Aide | |
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Are you interested in working in local government? My office is currently hiring a Constituent Service and Policy Aide! In this position, you will assist our constituents through casework in areas such as code compliance, permit applications, utilities, and more.
Responsibilities will include serving as a liaison between County staff and constituents, and drafting policy memos and letters. A successful candidate will be able to work well independently as well as support my office team as needed. They must also be highly dependable, organized, and have the ability to work quickly under pressure.
If you are interested in applying, please send your resume and cover letter to our email, Franconia@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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On June 19, 1865, the last of enslaved Black people living in Galveston, Texas, were finally told the Civil War had ended despite the Emancipation Proclamation having been signed two years before, in 1863, by President Abraham Lincoln. From that day, all Black people were free from the bondage of slavery.
This date came to be known as Juneteenth and, in modern times, became a day to celebrate freedom and resiliency after 246 years of enslavement; appreciate African American history and culture, and encourage continuous self-development.
In 2020, Fairfax County declared Juneteenth a county holiday and this is the 4th year that I've had the honor of celebrating Juneteenth as a member of the Board of Supervisors. Each year, I've reflected on what Juneteenth means to me. The first year I talked about what it meant to me to be the only African American serving on the Board of Supervisors and the first African American male ever to serve in that role. In 2021, I reflected on the concept of perseverance and how decades of injustices continue to impact African Americans today. In 2022 my remarks reflected on another tenant of Juneteenth: intervention.
This year, I will reflect on the importance of honoring the legacy of our ancestors. As many of them were pillars in their communities, we must all identify ways to be dedicated to serving our community and focused on improving the lives of those who are less fortunate.
I encourage you to learn more about Juneteenth and why this is a celebration all Americans can participate in. Learn more about Juneteenth here.
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West Ford Highway Marker Dedication | |
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Thank you to the New Gum Springs Civic Association and Queenie Cox for inviting me to the West Ford Virginia historical highway marker dedication and Juneteenth Celebration.
It was an honor to attend and celebrate the life of the "Father of Gum Springs," West Ford with the members of the Gum Springs Community and with Chairman McKay, Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan Storck, Delegate Paul Krizek, sisters from Alpha Kappa Alpha and Zeta Phi Beta sororities, and the brothers from Omega Psi Phi fraternity, the Ques. I look forward to continuing to work together to support our strong community.
Take a look at our video slideshow of the event here.
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Task Force on the Future of Lake Accotink - meeting announcement | |
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The Task Force on the Future of Lake Accotink, established at the June 6 Board of Supervisors meeting, will hold their first meeting on Monday, June 26, at 7 p.m. at the Government Center. The task force will produce findings that will inform the Board of Supervisors’ decision regarding the future of Lake Accotink.
Lake Accotink Park attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually with its stunning trails, picturesque picnic areas and engaging waterfront activities. The 55-acre manmade reservoir, which was built by the U.S. Army, has required regular dredging due to sedimentation. However, extensive analysis by Fairfax County staff has led to the recommendation against further dredging due to significant costs, environmental impacts, and difficulties in processing and disposing of sediment. The staff proposes restarting the Park's Master Planning process with a focus on fostering a sustainable future for the lake and the park.
The task force will review past studies about dredging and ensure comprehensive exploration of all options to preserve Lake Accotink in the most sustainable, equitable and cost-effective manner. It will identify crucial questions to be addressed if the board decides to explore a managed wetland or hybrid option. The group will also consider the environmental impact, effects on surrounding communities, recreational park usage and financing implications, including ongoing maintenance.
Former Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova will lead the task force, and it will include representatives from the community, environmental groups and nonprofit organizations.
The task force meeting schedule is below. Learn more about Lake Accotink on the Public Works and Environmental Services webpage.
Meeting Schedule at the Government Center (Conference Rooms 2 and 3)
- Monday, June 26, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Monday, July 10, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Monday, July 24, 7 to 9 p.m.
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Community Meeting on Proposed Sign Regulations | |
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Are you interested in learning more about proposed changes to the County's sign regulations?
Join County staff at an upcoming virtual community meeting to learn more. The remaining meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 28 at 7:00 p.m. and will be held on Microsoft Teams. Agenda items include an overview of the changes, along with discussion and time for questions and comments to be addressed. Links to join the meeting are included on the Signs Part II website under "Upcoming Meetings."
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Franconia Nights Summer Entertainment Series - starting July 5th! | |
I am happy to share that Franconia Nights are back! Starting Wednesday, July 5th, at the Leonadus K. Plenty Amphitheater in Franconia Park. The annual summer entertainment series will kick off featuring performers such as the Natyabhoomi School of Dance, Chuck Brown Band, the Nighthawks, and many more. This is the perfect occasion to bring your loved ones, dance, or just sit back and enjoy the night! I hope to see you there! | |
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Introducing THRIVE, Fairfax County's groundbreaking Small Business Technical Assistance Grant Program. With a deep commitment to our small business community, Fairfax County is dedicated to supporting their recovery, growth, and prosperity. More than half of our county's employees work with or for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, and we recognize the challenges they have faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That's why we've launched THRIVE.
To kickstart the THRIVE program, we are actively seeking firms with specialties in Marketing, Operations and Finance to apply to be Coaches and Consultants. Applications can be made via four Request for Proposals (RFP) opening on June 26 and close on August 4. We encourage qualified professionals and firms to seize this opportunity to contribute their expertise and join us in making a difference in the lives of local businesses.
THRIVE is designed to mitigate the negative economic impacts of the pandemic by providing Coaching and Consulting services to businesses in need. Through this program, Coaches and Consultants will provide approximately 600 businesses with technical assistance valued up to $10,000, empowering them to build their capacity and achieve their unique business goals. The Coach and Consultant’s fees are paid by THRIVE. This program is a chance for marketing, finance and operations firms to expand their business reach with the bills being paid by the THRIVE program.
Thanks to the Board of Supervisors’ allocation of $7,000,000 from Fairfax County's share of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), we can provide this vital support to our local business community. We believe that by investing in their success, we can foster economic recovery and create a thriving business environment.
Together, let's build a resilient and thriving business community through THRIVE. Visit our website to learn more about the program and how you can be a part of this exciting initiative.
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Fairfax County Public Library Summer Reading Challenge
June 16-August 18
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School's out for summer!
The Fairfax County Summer Reading Adventure is for YOUTH and ADULTS and participating is as easy as 1-2-3! Participate from June 16th to August 18th.
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Go to fairfaxcounty.beanstack.org and register for the Summer Reading Adventure appropriate for you or your children.
- Depending on your age, earn ten or fifteen virtual badges by reading or listening to books, reading for 20 or 30 minutes, completing activities or a combination of all three.
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Once you have earned your badges, visit your local library branch and receive prizes.
For more information, visit Youth Summer Reading 2023 and Adult Summer Reading 2023. Watch the Learn About Summer Reading Adventure: All Together Now video.
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Park Service Awards Nomination Deadline Extended to June 30
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There is still time to nominate an individual or organization for the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards. The Fairfax County Park Authority is extending the nomination period for honoring volunteers who work in our parks and support park programs and events. The new deadline will be extended until Friday, June 30.
There are a wide variety of categories that honor those who create partnerships, as well as awards for youth, individuals and groups that support equity and increased park access. There are also awards that acknowledge the service of those who honor history and those who support the environment. All award recipients will be honored at an in-person ceremony this fall.
The applications are online and easy to fill out. Check out the applications here.
The Elly Doyle Awards honor Ellamae “Elly” Doyle’s many years of service and accomplishment as a member and chair of the Park Authority Board. For more information or for alternative formats for applications, please contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.
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6 Tips to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect This Summer
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1. It’s often really hard to know if a child is being harmed. Sometimes we may see it happening with our own eyes, but other times we may only see signs of what could be happening. Be aware of the signs of abuse and neglect, such as:
- Malnourishment, lack of personal hygiene.
- Unexplained bruises, welts or other marks.
- Significant changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn or fearful.
- Children who appear too young to be left alone.
- Home safety hazards or unsanitary conditions.
2. Familiarize yourself with the Child Supervision Guidelines. There are no laws in Virginia that say when or for how long a child can be left alone. Parents are ultimately responsible for making decisions about their children’s safety. Every child is different and must be assessed based on their maturity, skills and comfort level to be home alone. However, all Northern Virginia jurisdictions agree that children 8 years old and younger should always be in the care of a responsible person. Guidelines state that children this age should never be left unsupervised in homes, cars, playgrounds or yards.
3. Refer families to the Parent Support Line available Monday-Friday,
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., at 703-324-7720. It’s a great resource for parents and caregivers, offering parenting advice, support and tips to help navigate emotional and relational parenting issues. They can also connect families to resources that might help them to navigate circumstances that complicate their ability to parent well. Language support is available.
4. If you have concerns about a child’s safety, call the Child Protective Services’ 24-hour hotline at 703-324-7400. You may give your name (confidentially) or remain anonymous.
5. Spread the Word about Free Virtual Body Safety Classes open to any Pre-K through sixth grade students living in Fairfax County. Using the Childhelp® Speak Up Be Safe curriculum, trained facilitators help children build safety skills, preparing them to identify and avoid risks such as child abuse, cyberbullying, and internet predators. Learn more about this program or register a child.
6. Children thrive when they have regular interactions with responsive, caring adults. These positive childhood experiences can help promote healthy brain development and build resilience in families. Unfortunately, neglect is the most reported form of child maltreatment, and it’s more likely in families who are overwhelmed with circumstances and experiencing an overload of stress. The most important thing we can do to help children thrive is to support families before they reach a crisis. You can make a difference by mentoring or volunteering with teens, being a safe and caring adult in a child’s life or providing support and encouragement to struggling parents. Learn how.
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Fairfax County Public Schools - Summer Meal Program
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Hunger doesn’t take a vacation and neither do we! The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will be hosting the Summer 2023 Summer Meal Service at schools throughout FCPS. Check out the school sites in the Franconia District:
- Cameron ES
- Garfield ES
- Groveton ES
- Hybla Valley ES
- Key MS and Key Center
- Lynbrook ES
- Mount Eagle ES
- Springfield Estates ES
Fairfax County Public Schools is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability or age, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be served in the school cafeteria, with a few exceptions noted in the list below, meals will be provided on a first come, first serve basis, at the sites and times as follows. All sites are closed on July 3rd and July 4th.
FNS will offer no-cost breakfast and lunch to all children 18 years of age and younger. There is no registration involved and everyone is welcome! Meals must be consumed on site. Click here for more info and to find a site near you.
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Over the past couple of months we have collected over 300 pounds of food for ECHO. We were so moved by the amount of food donated that we have decided to continue to accept donations at my office. We will be delivering all of the donated items at the end of the month. You still have time to donate! If you have non-perishable items that you wish to donate, please drop them off at my office. Let's continue to help lower food insecurity in our district!
More information: https://www.echo-inc.org/
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Are you in need of additional cooling during the summer?
The Senior Cool Care Program is a public-private partnership sponsored by Dominion Energy and administered by the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services through the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging that helps low-income older citizens in our jurisdiction keep cool during summer months.
The program runs May 1 through October 31, 2023. This program does not provide financial assistance, but it provides additional cooling at home, such as fans, for eligible older adults, age 60 and older.
If you are interested in learning more about the program, please contact the Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resource Line: 703-324-7948.
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Did you know that the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 includes a wide array of tax credits and rebates for things like electric vehicles, solar panels, appliances, and new doors and windows?
If you're in the market for an electric vehicle, you can receive a tax credit for $7,500 on qualifying vehicles. Solar panels, peripherals, and battery storage are eligible for a 30% tax credit. Tax credits are also available for heat pumps, heat pump water heaters and weatherization. Beginning in early 2024, there will also be up-front rebates on those and other home upgrades for qualifying low- and moderate-income households.
For more information, see this list of resources curated by the Fairfax County chapter of Citizens' Climate Lobby. The group is also available to provide presentations on this topic to groups. Please reach out to fairfax.va@citizensclimatelobby.org to discuss a presentation.
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Thank you for the opportunity to serve. | |
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Rodney L. Lusk
Franconia District Supervisor
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